Ranch camping near Camas with hiking

Within commuting distance of Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington, Camas is a good base if you want to visit area attractions without staying in a big city. Many people stop here for snacks and supplies on their way out to the hiking trails of the Columbia River Gorge or on their way to the nearby Yacolt Burn State Forest. That said, there's plenty to do in and around Camas, particularly in the warm summer months. Area highlights include the Washougal River, which is dotted with freshwater swimming holes fed by glacial melt, and Lacamas Lake, an excellent spot for fishing and birdwatching.

Just outside of Camas, on both the Washington and Oregon sides of the Columbia River, the Columbia River Gorge is celebrated for its many viewpoints and great hikes. Popular hiking areas on the Washington side include Hamilton Mountain and Dog Mountain, both of which offer expansive views for those willing to trek up to the top. 

Camas is at its warmest and driest in the summer months, particularly if you want to go swimming in the nearby Washougal River. July and August are almost always hot and dry, but it’s always wise to be prepared for rain or overcast days. If you plan to camp in the area, but don’t want to deal with crowds, September’s a great time to do it, as most schools in the area start up right after Labor Day.